THORNTON FRANCIS FRANK Of Murrysville passed peacefully with his loving wife by his side on Friday, January 13, 2017. Professor Thornton served as a faculty member of Duquesne University's department of speech communications and theatre from 1967 to 2006. Professor Thornton served as artistic director of theatre and professor of theatre arts prior to being appointed executive director of the theatre. He was a correspondent for National Public Radio since 1972 and also coordinated the theatre-media areas of Duquesne's speech department. He was awarded the Villanova University Alumni Medallion, given for outstanding graduates. He was a published author noted for novels entitled The Snake Harvest, Green Lorelei and Ceremony in Scarlet, among other works. He was a loyal, loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend to many. Frank was a devoted sports fan to the Steelers, Pirates, Pens and his beloved Villanova Wildcats. His smile, charm and keen wit will be deeply missed by all who loved him. Frank is survived by his wife, Mary Margret (Fullwood) Thornton, his sister, Alicia Klick; brothers-in-law, Jim Klick, Michael J. Fullwood and Edward C. Fullwood as well as his six nieces and nephews, Dr. John C. Klick, Matthew Klick, Sarah E. Fullwood, Edward G. Fullwood, John Fullwood and Caitlin Fullwood. A private blessing service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, January 17, 2017, at the HART FUNERAL HOME, INC., Murrysville with Father John Skirtich officiating. Interment will follow in the Murrysville Cemetery. If desired, memorials may be made to Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 or the Animal Rescue League, 6620 Hamilton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. www.hartfuneralhomeinc.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb